Our God is the God of Salvation"
Today's Mass Readings
In today’s reading the leader of a particular synagogue is upset with Jesus for curing a woman on the Sabbath, because he thought of such curing as the type of work prohibited by the Ten Commandments. In the diverse Judaism of Jesus’ day, this was actually an open question. What constituted “work” was hotly debated between Jewish scholars of the time.
Today's Mass Readings
In today’s reading the leader of a particular synagogue is upset with Jesus for curing a woman on the Sabbath, because he thought of such curing as the type of work prohibited by the Ten Commandments. In the diverse Judaism of Jesus’ day, this was actually an open question. What constituted “work” was hotly debated between Jewish scholars of the time.
The Lord Hears the Cry of the Poor"
Sunday Mass Readings
There are many reasons why people pray to God. There are those who pray to God because, they have no other means of support but the Lord. As the first reading (Sir 35:12-14, 16-18) suggests, “The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds.” Through their prayer such people express their dependence on God. Others, like the Pharisee in today’s gospel reading (Lk 18:9-14), pray because they can show-off. They pray because they think its their prayer that saves them while it is actually God who saves us. They pray to justify themselves.
Sunday Mass Readings
There are many reasons why people pray to God. There are those who pray to God because, they have no other means of support but the Lord. As the first reading (Sir 35:12-14, 16-18) suggests, “The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds.” Through their prayer such people express their dependence on God. Others, like the Pharisee in today’s gospel reading (Lk 18:9-14), pray because they can show-off. They pray because they think its their prayer that saves them while it is actually God who saves us. They pray to justify themselves.
Lord, this is the People that Longs to See Your Face"
Today's Mass Readings
St. Paul begins the eighth chapter of his Letter to the Romans with an exclamation that God has done what humans were unable to do. In Christ Jesus the law of sin and death has been conquered by the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus. Though Jesus was crucified in the manner of a common Roman criminal by the express sinfulness of human beings, this was not the end of the story. We know that he was raised, conquering death so that we may have life in the Spirit of God. We now live in that life according to the Spirit; the Kingdom of God has been inaugurated, but we will not know it in its fullness until Christ comes again. We are still a pilgrim Church, still “the people that longs to see [God’s] face” in the words of today’s Psalm.
Today's Mass Readings
St. Paul begins the eighth chapter of his Letter to the Romans with an exclamation that God has done what humans were unable to do. In Christ Jesus the law of sin and death has been conquered by the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus. Though Jesus was crucified in the manner of a common Roman criminal by the express sinfulness of human beings, this was not the end of the story. We know that he was raised, conquering death so that we may have life in the Spirit of God. We now live in that life according to the Spirit; the Kingdom of God has been inaugurated, but we will not know it in its fullness until Christ comes again. We are still a pilgrim Church, still “the people that longs to see [God’s] face” in the words of today’s Psalm.
Who will Deliver Me from this Mortal Body?"
Today's Mass Readings
Today’s first reading from the Letter of St. Paul to the Romans is one of the most moving discussions of a Christian’s battle with sin. Although original sin has been removed through Baptism, concupiscence remains, which inclines us to sin. Although concupiscence in itself is not sin, we must fight against this inclination to sin. This can be very difficult. St. Paul explains the difficulty by contrasting his desire to do good and his flesh which leads him to sin. He describes this “war” within himself. He feels that he is enslaved to sin. At the end he cries out, “Who will deliver me from this mortal body?” And his answer is Jesus: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
Today's Mass Readings
Today’s first reading from the Letter of St. Paul to the Romans is one of the most moving discussions of a Christian’s battle with sin. Although original sin has been removed through Baptism, concupiscence remains, which inclines us to sin. Although concupiscence in itself is not sin, we must fight against this inclination to sin. This can be very difficult. St. Paul explains the difficulty by contrasting his desire to do good and his flesh which leads him to sin. He describes this “war” within himself. He feels that he is enslaved to sin. At the end he cries out, “Who will deliver me from this mortal body?” And his answer is Jesus: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
I Have Come to Set the Earth on Fire"
Today's Sunday Mass Reading
Today’s Gospel reading from the Gospel of Luke is a difficult one for many of us to read. Jesus says that He has “come to set the earth on fire.” Fire is often used in the Bible to describe the presence of God. Theologians sometimes joke that if the saints in heaven were to step into hell they would freeze to death. Certainly the Bible sometimes describes hell with the imagery of fire, but far more often God is described as fiery. The angels closest to God are called seraphim, flaming ones.
Today's Sunday Mass Reading
Today’s Gospel reading from the Gospel of Luke is a difficult one for many of us to read. Jesus says that He has “come to set the earth on fire.” Fire is often used in the Bible to describe the presence of God. Theologians sometimes joke that if the saints in heaven were to step into hell they would freeze to death. Certainly the Bible sometimes describes hell with the imagery of fire, but far more often God is described as fiery. The angels closest to God are called seraphim, flaming ones.
You Also Must be Prepared"
Today's Mass Readings
There is a popular saying, attributed to St. Ignatius of Loyola, which advises Catholics to “Pray as though everything depended on God, and work as though everything depended on you.” Indeed, we even find this quote cited in the section of the Catechism of the Catholic Church which discusses the only prayer Jesus ever taught us: the Our Father (CCC, 2834). The saying is a powerful reminder that although we are saved by God’s free gift of grace through Jesus Christ, we are nevertheless responsible for cooperating with God and preparing for our salvation “with fear and trembling” (Phil. 2:12). Hence St. Paul tells us to “pray always” (Eph. 6:18), while St. James reminds us equally that “faith without works is dead” (James 2:26).
Today's Mass Readings
There is a popular saying, attributed to St. Ignatius of Loyola, which advises Catholics to “Pray as though everything depended on God, and work as though everything depended on you.” Indeed, we even find this quote cited in the section of the Catechism of the Catholic Church which discusses the only prayer Jesus ever taught us: the Our Father (CCC, 2834). The saying is a powerful reminder that although we are saved by God’s free gift of grace through Jesus Christ, we are nevertheless responsible for cooperating with God and preparing for our salvation “with fear and trembling” (Phil. 2:12). Hence St. Paul tells us to “pray always” (Eph. 6:18), while St. James reminds us equally that “faith without works is dead” (James 2:26).
Here I am, Lord; I Come to Do Your Will"
Today's Mass Readings
Inasmuch as he came expressly to do God’s will on earth, and althoug he was the Son of God, Jesus serves as a powerful model for us ordinary human beings. Although his life involved many pains and sorrows, Jesus never failed in incessant prayer nor in doing many good works (including miracles) out of his great love for God and for God’s people. This faithfulness of Jesus, even unto his death on the cross, is a beautiful illustration for Christians, that is, we who are called to imitate Christ.
Today's Mass Readings
Inasmuch as he came expressly to do God’s will on earth, and althoug he was the Son of God, Jesus serves as a powerful model for us ordinary human beings. Although his life involved many pains and sorrows, Jesus never failed in incessant prayer nor in doing many good works (including miracles) out of his great love for God and for God’s people. This faithfulness of Jesus, even unto his death on the cross, is a beautiful illustration for Christians, that is, we who are called to imitate Christ.
One’s Life Does Not Consist of Possessions.”
Today's Mass Readings
Today’s gospel reading and the message contained therein is very much a part of our furniture. In other words, we are used to hearing thiis gospel proclaimed in Church, and we know that as Christians we are not supposed to be attached to our possessions . And yet, though we know this reading, and see why God calls the man a “fool,” we nonetheless often live our lives as though we wanted just to rest, eat, drink, and be merry. Especially in the United States where our country is so richly blessed with material resources, and so constantly bombarded by advertisements, we are susceptible to this message of materialism and consumerism.
Today's Mass Readings
Today’s gospel reading and the message contained therein is very much a part of our furniture. In other words, we are used to hearing thiis gospel proclaimed in Church, and we know that as Christians we are not supposed to be attached to our possessions . And yet, though we know this reading, and see why God calls the man a “fool,” we nonetheless often live our lives as though we wanted just to rest, eat, drink, and be merry. Especially in the United States where our country is so richly blessed with material resources, and so constantly bombarded by advertisements, we are susceptible to this message of materialism and consumerism.
Our Help is From the Lord, Who Made Heaven and Earth"
Sunday Mass Readings
I wonder if there are things you have been praying for and they have not been answered. Sometimes it leaves us disappointed with God. Sometimes we even question God, “Why?” Sometimes we try to give answers, “It is not God’s will.” The theme of the readings today is prayer. But we will not concentrate on prayer itself, rather on how prayer functions in our lives. In many ways the readings teach us about and prayer, persistence and perseverance.
Sunday Mass Readings
I wonder if there are things you have been praying for and they have not been answered. Sometimes it leaves us disappointed with God. Sometimes we even question God, “Why?” Sometimes we try to give answers, “It is not God’s will.” The theme of the readings today is prayer. But we will not concentrate on prayer itself, rather on how prayer functions in our lives. In many ways the readings teach us about and prayer, persistence and perseverance.
Faith will Suffice"
Today's Mass Readings
Paul, in today’s first reading from his letter to the Romans (4:13, 16-18), strives to impress upon his audience that it is not the Law that saves the human person, but rather, faith in Jesus Christ. For this he will provide a number of examples from the Old Testament, who (even though could not have had faith in Jesus), became godly figures because of their faith. As we know from yesterday’s reading and today’s readings, his first example of faith is Abraham.
Today's Mass Readings
Paul, in today’s first reading from his letter to the Romans (4:13, 16-18), strives to impress upon his audience that it is not the Law that saves the human person, but rather, faith in Jesus Christ. For this he will provide a number of examples from the Old Testament, who (even though could not have had faith in Jesus), became godly figures because of their faith. As we know from yesterday’s reading and today’s readings, his first example of faith is Abraham.
Even the Hairs of Your Head Have all Been Counted
Today's Mass Readings
The first reading from St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans continues Paul’s reflection on the relationship of Gentiles (non-Jews) to the Christian faith. In making his theological argument in today’s passage, Paul turns to Abraham as a model of faith. This move – the emphasis on faith as righteousness, apart from works – enables Paul to argue that Abraham is the father of both the Gentiles and the Jews, the uncircumcised as well as the circumcised (as reflected in 4:11-14 of Romans). And what does circumcision have to do with works? By “works” Paul’s means works of the law – not simply good deeds, but rather those actions prescribed by Jewish law, such as circumcision. Paul argues that it is not strict adherence to Jewish law that saves, but faith in God.
Today's Mass Readings
The first reading from St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans continues Paul’s reflection on the relationship of Gentiles (non-Jews) to the Christian faith. In making his theological argument in today’s passage, Paul turns to Abraham as a model of faith. This move – the emphasis on faith as righteousness, apart from works – enables Paul to argue that Abraham is the father of both the Gentiles and the Jews, the uncircumcised as well as the circumcised (as reflected in 4:11-14 of Romans). And what does circumcision have to do with works? By “works” Paul’s means works of the law – not simply good deeds, but rather those actions prescribed by Jewish law, such as circumcision. Paul argues that it is not strict adherence to Jewish law that saves, but faith in God.
The Kingdom of God is at Hand for You."
Today's Mass Readings
In a week that we remember a number of important saints, today we honor St.
Luke the Evangelist. He is one of our earliest saints, and the first reading from 2 Timothy recognizes him as one of Paul’s companions – someone who was faithful to the gospel and committed to sharing it with others. Luke’s particular gift as someone wrote his gospel and Acts of the Apostles was his attention for detail.
Today's Mass Readings
In a week that we remember a number of important saints, today we honor St.
Luke the Evangelist. He is one of our earliest saints, and the first reading from 2 Timothy recognizes him as one of Paul’s companions – someone who was faithful to the gospel and committed to sharing it with others. Luke’s particular gift as someone wrote his gospel and Acts of the Apostles was his attention for detail.
Only in God is My Soul at Rest"
Today's Mass Readings
If we do not understand today’s first reading as a continuation of yesterday’s readings, it is easy to misunderstand Paul’s harsh language about the wrath of God. Not once, but twice just in today’s reading Paul points to the judgement and wrath of God. In the gospel reading too, Jesus expresses his frustration with the Pharisees for their inability to comprehend the mysteries of spiritual life.
Today's Mass Readings
If we do not understand today’s first reading as a continuation of yesterday’s readings, it is easy to misunderstand Paul’s harsh language about the wrath of God. Not once, but twice just in today’s reading Paul points to the judgement and wrath of God. In the gospel reading too, Jesus expresses his frustration with the Pharisees for their inability to comprehend the mysteries of spiritual life.
The One Who is Righteous by faith Will Live.”
Today's Mass Readings
The letter to the Romans is not an easy letter to grasp. It contains some basic Christian teaching which has influenced Christian doctrine even to this day. In today’s first reading for example (Rom 1:16-25), we find the basis for Catholic teaching on natural law. St. Paul elaborates on what we find written in Psalm 19, namely, that God can be known by all through the world around us. God created the universe, and everything in it, and has left His mark on the created order. The difficulty is that through sin, our sense of God and of God’s law has been impaired. If we were sinless, we would easily perceive God through the created world, and we would have clear access to the natural law through our conscience, which would clearly perceive the Holy Spirit speaking to us. Because of the reality of sin, the Church does not teach that we should obey our conscience blindly, but rather we should only obey an informed conscience.
Today's Mass Readings
The letter to the Romans is not an easy letter to grasp. It contains some basic Christian teaching which has influenced Christian doctrine even to this day. In today’s first reading for example (Rom 1:16-25), we find the basis for Catholic teaching on natural law. St. Paul elaborates on what we find written in Psalm 19, namely, that God can be known by all through the world around us. God created the universe, and everything in it, and has left His mark on the created order. The difficulty is that through sin, our sense of God and of God’s law has been impaired. If we were sinless, we would easily perceive God through the created world, and we would have clear access to the natural law through our conscience, which would clearly perceive the Holy Spirit speaking to us. Because of the reality of sin, the Church does not teach that we should obey our conscience blindly, but rather we should only obey an informed conscience.
Something Greater than Jonah is Here "
Today's Mass Readings
On this memorial of St. Teresa of Jesus, better known as St. Teresa of Avila, we find Jesus hinting at His significance in today’s reading from the Gospel of Luke. He is criticizing many of His generation, because they did not recognize who He was.
Today's Mass Readings
On this memorial of St. Teresa of Jesus, better known as St. Teresa of Avila, we find Jesus hinting at His significance in today’s reading from the Gospel of Luke. He is criticizing many of His generation, because they did not recognize who He was.
If We Have Died with Christ We shall also Live with Christ"
Sunday Mass Readings
"If we have died with him
we shall also live with him;
if we persevere
we shall also reign with him." (2 Tim 2:11-12)
The above verses are taken from an early Christian hymn. Paul uses it in his letter to Timothy to urge the early Christians to remain faithful to Christ in the midst of adversity. The hymn is relevant even today.
Sunday Mass Readings
"If we have died with him
we shall also live with him;
if we persevere
we shall also reign with him." (2 Tim 2:11-12)
The above verses are taken from an early Christian hymn. Paul uses it in his letter to Timothy to urge the early Christians to remain faithful to Christ in the midst of adversity. The hymn is relevant even today.
Blessed are Those Who Hear the Word of God and Observe It"
Today's Mass Readings
There are two instances in the gospels where Jesus seems to be devaluing the role of Mary, his mother in his life. One of them is today’s gospel reading from Luke 11:27-28. Jesus response to the woman in the crowd who said, “Blessed is the womb that carried you and the breasts at which you nursed,” at first sight seems rather negative. In another place in Luke (Lk 8: 19-21), when his mother and his brothers came to see Jesus, he once again seems to minimize the role of his mother. Instead, he says, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and keep it.” Some Christians use these passages to justify their negative assessment of Mary. They say that if Jesus treated Mary in such an ordinary way so must all Christians.
Today's Mass Readings
There are two instances in the gospels where Jesus seems to be devaluing the role of Mary, his mother in his life. One of them is today’s gospel reading from Luke 11:27-28. Jesus response to the woman in the crowd who said, “Blessed is the womb that carried you and the breasts at which you nursed,” at first sight seems rather negative. In another place in Luke (Lk 8: 19-21), when his mother and his brothers came to see Jesus, he once again seems to minimize the role of his mother. Instead, he says, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and keep it.” Some Christians use these passages to justify their negative assessment of Mary. They say that if Jesus treated Mary in such an ordinary way so must all Christians.
Whoever is Not With Me is Against Me"
Today's Mass Readings
In today’s reading from the Gospel of Luke, Jesus casts out demons. Some among the crowd, however, assert that Jesus was only able to cast out demons because He Himself relies upon the power of the prince of demons, Beelzebul, the lord of the flies, or Satan himself. Jesus responds by pointing out how foolish it would be for Satan to fight his own demons. How could such a kingdom stand where it was divided amongst itself?
Today's Mass Readings
In today’s reading from the Gospel of Luke, Jesus casts out demons. Some among the crowd, however, assert that Jesus was only able to cast out demons because He Himself relies upon the power of the prince of demons, Beelzebul, the lord of the flies, or Satan himself. Jesus responds by pointing out how foolish it would be for Satan to fight his own demons. How could such a kingdom stand where it was divided amongst itself?
Blessed are They who Hope in the Lord
Today's Mass Readings
Today’s beautiful first reading strikes a contrast between those who defy the Lord and those who fear the Lord, trusting in his name. Those who defy the Lord ask indignantly why they should be repentant when evildoers profit. Those who fear the Lord, meanwhile, have their names recorded and receive God’s compassion: “But for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays” (Mal 3:20b). We see here that ultimately God takes care of those who respect him and do his will; this is true even if evildoers seem to profit in their defiance of the Lord on earth.
Today's Mass Readings
Today’s beautiful first reading strikes a contrast between those who defy the Lord and those who fear the Lord, trusting in his name. Those who defy the Lord ask indignantly why they should be repentant when evildoers profit. Those who fear the Lord, meanwhile, have their names recorded and receive God’s compassion: “But for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays” (Mal 3:20b). We see here that ultimately God takes care of those who respect him and do his will; this is true even if evildoers seem to profit in their defiance of the Lord on earth.
Lord, You are Merciful and Gracious"
Today's Mass Readings
The stormy episode between God and Jonah finally comes to a climax in today’s first reading. This story contrasts God’s will against Jonah’s stubbornness, God’s mercy against Jonah’s vengeful nature and God’s universal love against Jonah’s desire for exclusivity. Finally, God is able to persuade Jonah to see faith, the world and himself in the way that God sees things. It is a vision of universal peace and love.
Today's Mass Readings
The stormy episode between God and Jonah finally comes to a climax in today’s first reading. This story contrasts God’s will against Jonah’s stubbornness, God’s mercy against Jonah’s vengeful nature and God’s universal love against Jonah’s desire for exclusivity. Finally, God is able to persuade Jonah to see faith, the world and himself in the way that God sees things. It is a vision of universal peace and love.